Romance, Rhythms, and the Roaring Twenties: Your Brisbane Valentine’s Guide

A Spectacular Saturday in the River City

This Saturday, 14 February 2026, Brisbane transforms into a hub of culture and romance. Whether you are celebrating Valentine’s Day with a partner or simply looking to soak up the vibrant local atmosphere, the city offers an impressive lineup of theater, comedy, and community festivals. From the glitz of the Playhouse to the bustling stalls of West End, here is your guide to what is on today.

Theatrical Masterpieces and Musical Magic

It is a landmark weekend for theater lovers at the Queensland Performing Arts Centre (QPAC). Most notably, the opening weekend of The Great Gatsby at the Playhouse brings F. Scott Fitzgerald’s gin-soaked world to life. Expect a lavish production filled with glitz and tragedy as Jay Gatsby pursues his lost love. Meanwhile, the Lyric Theatre continues its run of the legendary musical CATS, celebrating its 40th anniversary with spectacular choreography and timeless scores. For those who prefer a darker brand of comedy, today marks one of the final opportunities to catch Little Shop of Horrors at the Cremorne Theatre before it closes tomorrow.

Festival Vibes: BrisAsia and the Military Tattoo

The BrisAsia Festival is in full swing, offering a variety of cultural experiences across the city. Head to the Brisbane Powerhouse for the inaugural BrisAsia Comedy Gala, hosted by Michael Hing. This event features a stellar lineup of Asian Australian comedians serving up a night of heart and humor. If you prefer high-energy performance, don’t miss the ON:STAGE K-pop dance showcase, which promises to bring rhythm and color to the city streets.

For a larger-than-life experience, the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo marches into Suncorp Stadium tonight. This iconic event features over 1,000 performers, including massed pipes and drums, military bands, and dancers, celebrating its 75th anniversary with a full-scale production that is rarely seen in the Southern Hemisphere.

Morning Markets and Weekend Staples

Start your Saturday by visiting some of Brisbane’s favorite local markets. The Davies Park Market in West End is the perfect spot for a riverside breakfast and fresh produce. Alternatively, the Powerhouse Farmers Markets in New Farm offers artisan breads, flowers, and local crafts under the shade of the iconic fig trees. For those in the northern suburbs, the Saturday Fresh Market at Rocklea remains a staple for bargain hunters and foodies alike.

Evening Romance and Cabaret

If you are looking for a unique Valentine’s date, consider the Bombshell’s Ball: Valentine’s Follies at Arcana in Moorooka, featuring a night of cheeky cabaret and burlesque. For a more classic evening, the Brisbane Jazz Club hosts a special "Songs About Love" performance by Blue Turtles, offering a sophisticated soundtrack of Sting and The Police hits against the backdrop of the city skyline.

• The Great Gatsby: QPAC Playhouse, check for matinee and evening sessions.
• BrisAsia Comedy Gala: Brisbane Powerhouse, 7:30 PM.
• Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo: Suncorp Stadium, gates open 5:30 PM.
• Davies Park Markets: West End, 6:00 AM to 2:00 PM.